The co-payment for all patients living with HIV in Qld will be waived, allowing access to free HIV treatment, confirmed the Qld Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services, Shannon Fentiman, this week. The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Qld Branch stated it welcomes the announcement which became effective from 03 Oct. The waiver applies to patients who live with HIV regardless of their Medicare status. Acting President for the Guild’s Qld Branch, Rick Xynias (pictured), commended the Qld Govt for implementing this “important” public health initiative. “We have been working with the Qld Govt on this initiative and we are urging all community pharmacies to participate in the program, so patients can be assured that when they visit their local community pharmacy, they will receive free treatment and not miss out on receiving the vital medication for HIV.” Xynias explained that waiving the co-payment will help those living with HIV by removing the cost barrier and improving access to the medication. “Through the strong network of community pharmacies, patients living with HIV, regardless of their circumstances, will be able to access free HIV medication, which ultimately helps reduce the risk of HIV transmission in the community,” explained Xynias. To submit the HIV co-payment waiver claims and receive reimbursement from Queensland Health, community pharmacies must use the Guild’s online claiming portal, available from 01 Nov, to accept registrations and claims. The Guild reported that Queensland Health is committed to the virtual elimination of HIV transmission by 2030, and supports the achievement of the UNAIDS HIV 95-95-95 targets which seek to ensure that 95% of HIV-positive people know their HIV status; and those who know their status are on antiretroviral therapy and maintain an undetectable viral load to reduce onward transmission. JG